Friendly Competition Fosters Community

Would you believe a utility closet is the hottest place to be seen at the Health and Human Services Agency’s Behavioral Health Services offices on Camino del Rio South?

Every Monday morning a steady stream of employees makes the journey to the closet with one goal in mind – seeing shrinking numbers on a scale placed there to measure progress in their third annual Biggest Loser competition.

“That’s our super-secret hiding place – a utility closet,” said Sabrena Marshall, one of the coordinators of the contest.

Participants are on teams, and report their weight loss to Jack Haydock, who tallies the team totals for the week and provides an update. Weight loss is reported in the percentage of body weight lost for both the individual and the team.

It’s the third year in a row for the “Biggest Loser” competition. This year’s weight loss challenge even comes with an added twist – the opportunity to join a walking club whose goal is to collectively walk to New York City.

“We have a lot of new staff this year and a lot of the same people,” said Marshall. “It’s an on-going journey for some of us.”

The competition is friendly, but they do contribute an entry fee and the winner – or loser in this case – walks away with a cash prize, as does the second place finisher. There is also a Miss Congeniality-type prize this year, voted on by participants, to honor the co-worker who offers the most support and encouragement to the group.

“It really fosters a sense of community,” said Samantha Lea, who is coordinating the walking activities. “It has given everyone a great opportunity to meet other people.”

Steve Jones was the organizer of the inaugural contest and is still involved. “I’m the nagger and cheerleader.”

There have been more than 100 participants in the three-year history of the contest and this year they should easily break the 1,000-pound weight loss mark. In 2010, they collectively lost 548 pounds and the 2011 version netted a total of 317 pounds lost.

The walk to New York City was inspired by the County’s 10-year Live Well, San Diego! initiative. It’s actually separate from the Biggest Loser competition, but many people are doing both.

“We wanted to start the walk separate so others could join, but we specifically targeted the Biggest Loser group,” said Marshall. “We have more than 45 walkers so far.”